TED-Ed: What did people do before anesthesia? | Sally Frampton

The video explores the history of anesthesia, starting with Robert Liston's rapid surgeries in the 1830s, when speed was crucial due to the lack of anesthesia. It traces the development of anesthetic methods from ancient times, highlighting key figures like Hua To and Iben Al Kuff. The narrative progresses to the 18th and 19th centuries, focusing on the discovery and use of nitrous oxide, ether, and chloroform. The video also addresses ethical concerns and the evolution of anesthesia into safer, modern practices, allowing for more complex surgeries without the need for speed.

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